Japan-Shikoku: Travel Guide to Kochi, Tokushima, Ehime & Kagawa | Exploring the Underrated Island　四国

We headed down to the Niyodo River for a canoeing adventure. The water was unbelievably clear, so much so that we could see fish swimming beneath us, making it feel like gliding over a glassy, living canvas. The weather was perfect, and they even had a drone capturing our experience from above, which made it feel even more special. It's a must-try for a memorable experience in Shikoku, especially watching the sunset surrounded by the stunning nature and the famous Niyodo Blue.

At Tosa Tataki Dojo, I got to see how they prepare their mouthwatering seared bonito. They take fresh bonito and quickly sear it over an open flame, just enough to get a beautiful smoky char on the outside while keeping the inside tender and rare. It's the perfect balance between cooked and raw. After searing, they slice it thinly and serve it. When I tasted it, it was absolutely mouthwatering, especially with garlic and a splash of citrus balancing the flavors perfectly. I seriously recommend giving this a try if you're in Kochi.

When we arrived at Shikoku Karst, we were greeted by thick fog, making it tough to set up our tent, and it was super cold and windy. But the next morning, we woke up to an incredible, breathtaking view. We decided to hike up to a higher spot, and as we drove further, we came across stunning carsted terraces. The walking was worth it for the panoramic views of the entire karst plateau, which took our breath away. Exploring these incredible natural wonders was truly unforgettable, a perfect blend of beauty and adventure.

I had a chance to run and enjoy the Sada Chinkabashi, a submersible bridge with no railings. It's simple, beautiful, and kind of poetic in a way, just letting nature do its thing. If you ever visit Kochi, definitely check one of these out.

After spotting playful dolphins at Kashiwa Island, we stopped for lunch at a tiny local spot. Then came the fun part: some quick fishing! We caught a fish and, totally by accident, an octopus, which definitely made the day even more memorable. To wrap things up, we headed to Sukumo Resort for a relaxing soak in the hot onsen, and dinner there was amazing. This last day at Kashiwa Island was the perfect finale.

At Yamauchi Studio, I got to experience the art of indigo dyeing firsthand. Before dyeing, they taught us how to create cool patterns by tying rubber bands and wrapping small balls around the fabric, which are resist techniques that form unique designs. It's like tie-dye but with a traditional Japanese twist. Then, you gently dip the fabric into a deep blue vat, which surprisingly looks green at first. You let it breathe, and the color slowly shifts from green to an amazing rich blue—it's mesmerizing! The trick is to dip it multiple times to get that deep, lasting shade. Each dip makes the color stronger and more vibrant. It was so much fun getting hands-on with such an ancient craft, making me appreciate the skill and patience involved. My finished piece, hanging out to dry, was so rewarding to see come to life.

Stepping onto the Iya Kazurabashi vine bridge is definitely a bit nerve-wracking at first. The planks are spaced out, and you can literally see the river rushing beneath your feet. It creaks and sways, and every step makes you feel like you're on an adventure. But honestly, that's what makes it so cool—the view is just breathtaking. Crossing it was such a surreal experience: a little bit thrilling, a lot humbling, and surrounded by some of the most stunning nature we've seen so far. Iya Valley definitely left a mark on us.

This part of the trip was extra special for us: experiencing Ehime's traditional bull fighting. This event is all about strength, pride, and a centuries-old tradition. The matches are intense but carefully managed; if things get too heated, the handlers work together to step in and separate the bulls with incredible skill. What makes this event more special is how rare it is—it only happens a few times a year, and we were so lucky to be there. It was something we'll never forget: intense, powerful, and deep-rooted in local culture.